Fire Inspector: Spring for Batteries When You Spring Forward Tonight

When you move the clocks up an hour this evening, the recommends that you also replace the batteries in your smoke detectors.

Daylight saving time begins at 2 a.m. Sunday, and in addition to springing for new batteries when you spring forward or fall back, John Coleman, fire inspector for Cleveland Heights, said that residents should pick one day a week to test the devices, as smoke detectors are the biggest factor in preventing fire-related fatalities.

Cleveland Heights has seen , Coleman said – but, luckily, there were no deaths. 

“A lot of fires are due to carelessness,” Coleman said. He provided several :

• Use extension cords and three-prong plug adaptors for temporary purposes only. Even heavy-duty cords are not safe — use power strips instead.
• Never use extension cords and adapters for air conditioners, microwaves, mini fridges or other large appliances. 
• Unplug styling tools and other electronics when they are not being used, such as coffee pots, toasters, flat irons and phone chargers. Power surges and shortages can cause fires, Coleman said.
• Write down the date when installing a smoke detector. The devices should be replaced every seven to 10 years.
• Install at least one smoke detector on every floor and in the bedrooms of heavy sleepers.
• Keep space heaters away from bedding, curtains and any other items, and purchase those that automatically shut off when they tip over.
• Switch off power strips after shutting down the computer.
• Keep ovens, fireplaces and dryer pipes clean, and use a vacuum to reach underneath and behind refrigerators. The build up can ignite if it gets hot enough. 
• Don’t cook under the influence. Sometimes fires are caused when people have had a few drinks, get hungry, start cooking something then fall asleep, Coleman said. Also, try not to get distracted by phone calls or the television when preparing a meal.
• Don’t store combustibles, like cardboard boxes, underneath the stairs. If a fire starts and flames engulf those items, “it takes away your means of escape,” Coleman said.

Residents can pick up free smoke detectors in Cleveland Heights City Hall.